Homeschool reimbursement and benefits in the District of Columbia
No general public homeschool curriculum allotment is listed. Local programs can still help with specific costs and services.
What public funding exists, and what it asks of you
The District offers free services instead of money. Homeschooled students can ride transit free through the Kids Ride Free program, parents can get a DC Educator's Library Card, and children can take the statewide tests at no charge.
Homeschooling is a separate status. Your child cannot also enroll in a public school or public charter school, and special education services end once you withdraw. You can still ask for an evaluation to learn which services your child would get in a District public school.
For sports, your child can petition the District's state athletic association. The principal and athletic director of a member school must approve in writing, and your child needs a waiver of the eligibility rules. The state education agency's homeschool FAQ also lists a dual-enrollment program that lets pre-college DC students earn college credit with no tuition.
Local help in the District of Columbia
The local programs we have checked across the state cover recreation, testing and assessments, transportation, and library resources. Each local program sets its own rules for who qualifies. Search your ZIP code to see the ones that serve your address.
The state's homeschool rules
You must submit the initial notice at least 15 business days before the first day of home instruction. You must submit the annual continuation notice by August 15 in later years.
- Subjects: Provide regular, thorough instruction in language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education.
- Testing: No routine standardized test submission is required, but OSSE may request records and review whether the program meets the legal standard.
- Records: District of Columbia requires you to keep a portfolio of the student's work for at least one year and make it available to OSSE when properly requested.
- Teachers: The teaching parent or guardian must have a high school diploma or equivalent, unless OSSE grants a waiver.
Read the District of Columbia homeschooling guide
Questions parents ask
- What should I confirm before buying or applying?
- Who qualifies, what the program pays for, who receives the payment, and whether you need approval before you buy. Confirm each with the provider. Keep receipts and any award or payment confirmation; a listing does not guarantee an award.
The coursework alongside those local services
Local services can help with books, travel, and activities. We teach the courses and grade the work, so you can use those services alongside your child’s learning.
$149/month per child after the trial.